Teacher Profiles - USA

Molly Hayes

• Age: 24
• Address: West Croydon, Surrey
• Qualifications: Bachelor of Arts (Elementary Education)
• Work: Long Term teaching position
• From: Chicago, Illinois

Why did you decide to teach in the UK?

Why not? It is in Europe! You get the opportunity to meet different people and see different cultures. There are different experiences at your fingertips. Working in education in England’s system means that you get an education of different people and cultures.

What kind of teaching experience were you looking for and are you getting it?

I was looking for a long-term teaching position in Year 1. I thought I would need more of support from the school to become well adjusted. I have received that support from the school, teachers and TimePlan. I have never felt “in the dark” because there is always someone to talk to.

How was your transfer to the UK?

When I arrived in London, I was nervous. TimePlan set me up with pleasant accommodation and they met with me for an interview to help me get more settled with the bank, transport and cell phone, among other things. The Surrey office was very helpful, and went out of their way to help me.

What are you enjoying most?

I enjoy learning, and seeing the way English schools are run and being able to compare it to teaching in the US. They are pretty similar. In the beginning it was overwhelming, but people were supportive.

Top Tip?

Bring one item from your home country that you can share with your class. Get to know other people in the program, as your main networking is done at the start. Be flexible, things are not always going to run smoothly.